Amish Community Blossoms in Rural Wales, Maine: A New Chapter in Simple Living
In a quiet corner of Androscoggin County, a new Amish settlement is taking root, marking the latest expansion of this traditional Christian sect in Maine. Established in 2020, the community in Wales, Maine, is breathing new life into the rural landscape and local economy[6].
A dozen Amish families have moved onto a large farm off Leeds Junction Road, purchasing the 350-acre property from longtime farmer Roger Fortin[1]. The farm, once known as Little Alaska Farm due to its chilly winds, is now set to become a hub of traditional agricultural practices and craftsmanship[1].
Paul Burgess, the town’s first selectman, expressed enthusiasm for the new arrivals. “It’s going to be great for our town,” he said, noting that the Amish plan to grow vegetables and produce cheese for sale[1]. This influx of “honest, hardworking families” is seen as a boon for the aging community of about 1,600 people[1].
Neighbor Nancy Blaisdell, who has lived across the street for over four decades, welcomed the change. “They’re terrific people who work together,” she said, anticipating a renewal of the farm lifestyle that was once common in the area[1].
The Amish are known for their simple living, plain dress, and reluctance to adopt many modern technologies. Their arrival in Wales adds to Maine’s growing Amish population, which has more than doubled in the past decade to an estimated 850 individuals[2].
This new settlement joins other Amish communities in Maine, including those in Smyrna, Fort Fairfield, Unity, and Whitefield[5][6]. Each of these settlements brings its own unique characteristics, ranging from conservative to more progressive interpretations of Amish life.
As the Wales settlement establishes itself, it faces both opportunities and challenges. The harsh Maine winters and the need to build a self-sufficient community from the ground up will test the resilience of these pioneers. However, if the success of other Amish settlements in Maine is any indication, the Wales community has a promising future ahead.
The arrival of the Amish in Wales not only diversifies the local population but also promises to contribute to the preservation of traditional farming methods and craftsmanship. As Maine continues to attract Amish settlers, it’s clear that the state’s rural character and available farmland make it an appealing destination for those seeking to maintain their traditional way of life.
The new Amish settlement in Wales, Maine, established in 2020, is one of the youngest and smallest Amish communities in the state. It differs from other Maine Amish settlements in several ways:
Size: The Wales settlement is still relatively small, with only a handful of Amish residences. This contrasts with larger communities like Fort Fairfield, which has around 20 families and 140 people.
Age: As a recent settlement, Wales is in its early stages of development compared to more established communities like Smyrna, which dates back to 1996 and is the oldest in Maine.
Economic development: While the Wales settlement is just beginning to establish businesses, older communities like Unity have developed multiple enterprises, including popular stores that attract outside visitors.
Conservative nature: The level of conservatism varies among Maine’s Amish communities. For instance, Fort Fairfield is described as one of the most conservative, while Unity is known for being more progressive and open to outsiders.
Origin: Unlike some other Maine settlements that were founded by Amish from various states, the Wales community’s specific origin is not mentioned in the search results.
Public profile: The Wales settlement has not yet gained the public attention that some other Maine Amish communities have received. For example, Unity is described as the state’s best-known and most “public” Amish settlement.
As the Wales settlement continues to grow and develop, it may evolve to have more distinct characteristics or similarities with other Maine Amish communities[3][4].
From Prairie to Promise: The Amish Journey to Hutchinson County, South Dakota
In the spring of 2010, a small group of Amish families embarked on a journey that would mark a significant milestone in their community’s history. Leaving behind the familiar landscapes of Wisconsin, they set their sights on the open prairies of South Dakota, specifically Hutchinson County near the town of Tripp. This move represented not just a change in geography, but a bold step into uncharted territory for the Amish in South Dakota.
The decision to relocate was driven by a combination of factors. As Eli J. Bontreger, an Amish bishop who had previously moved to Wisconsin, once wrote about a similar relocation, “The novelty of farming these prairie lands […] wore off after a number of years, and a desire for farming on a smaller scale grew more or less on some of us”[2]. This sentiment echoed in the hearts of the Wisconsin Amish who chose to make South Dakota their new home.
The primary motivation behind the move was the search for more space and affordable farmland. Wisconsin, while beautiful and home to a significant Amish population, was becoming increasingly crowded for some community members. The wide-open spaces of South Dakota offered a chance to establish farms on a larger scale and continue their traditional agricultural practices without the constraints of more densely populated areas.
Initially, three families made the move in April 2010, settling in rural Hutchinson County[1]. The community grew quickly, with two more families arriving shortly after, and a sixth family expected by August of the same year. By then, they anticipated having about 50 people living on the farms they were purchasing[1].
The arrival of the Amish in Hutchinson County was met with curiosity and warmth from their non-Amish neighbors. Phyllis Dewald, a rural resident of the county, expressed admiration for the green thumb of one of the Amish women, Ida Borntreger, noting her skill in growing asparagus[1]. This interaction highlighted the beginning of what would become a positive relationship between the Amish and their new community.
Establishing Roots in South Dakota
As the Amish settled into their new home, they began the process of establishing their community infrastructure. One of the first priorities was to set up their own school for their children. Unlike the nearby Tripp-Delmont school district or the Hutterite schools, the Amish planned to build and operate their own educational facility, in line with their traditional practices[1].
The families quickly set about purchasing farms and building their homes and barns. Dan Borntreger, one of the Amish men, spoke proudly of the barn-building work they were undertaking, despite the challenging heat. He expressed a sense of freedom in their work ethic, saying, “We can quit any time we want, we can start any time we want. And we take Sundays off”[1]. This approach to labor reflected the Amish values of hard work, simplicity, and religious observance.
Integration and Challenges
The Amish families found ways to integrate into the local economy while maintaining their traditional lifestyle. They began shopping in Tripp, visiting the local dentist, and doing their banking in the community. They also purchased livestock at the local sale barn and continued their practice of butchering their own meat[1].
However, the transition was not without its challenges. The open landscape of South Dakota, while offering the space they sought, was quite different from the more wooded areas they were accustomed to in Wisconsin. Rudy Borntreger, who would later become the community’s bishop, noted, “We wanted there to be an Amish community here, but seems like everybody Amish is more from Ohio or Pennsylvania, where there are more trees”[4]. This geographical difference would later prove to be a factor in the community’s struggle to attract new families.
Growth and Community Relations
Despite the challenges, the Amish community in Hutchinson County continued to grow. By 2014, the settlement had expanded to nine families[7]. The bishop at the time reported that the group was “pretty well welcomed to the community,” with only minor issues such as some locals expressing concern about horse droppings on the roads[7].
The Amish’s presence in the area left a lasting impression on their neighbors. Marion Ymker, the owner of Ymker Greenhouse and Landscaping in Armour, where some of the Amish had worked for about a decade, expressed disappointment when learning of their eventual decision to move, saying, “We love ’em here”[4].
Economic Pursuits and Adaptations
Initially, many of the Amish families in Hutchinson County pursued dairy farming, continuing a tradition they had brought with them from Wisconsin. However, they faced several challenges in this endeavor. The difficulties in maintaining dairy operations in South Dakota led to a shift in their agricultural focus.
Adapting to the local conditions and market demands, the Amish community transitioned to raising bottle calves imported from out of state. This became the main occupation among the settlers, demonstrating their ability to adjust their economic activities to the realities of their new environment[4].
The Amish also engaged in other trades and services, as is common in many of their communities. Some found work in nearby towns, such as at the greenhouse in Armour, contributing to the local economy while maintaining their distinct lifestyle.
Challenges and Decisions
As the years passed, the Hutchinson County Amish settlement faced ongoing challenges. The difficulty in attracting new Amish families to join them in South Dakota became increasingly apparent. The open, treeless landscape that had initially offered the space they sought now seemed to be a deterrent for potential newcomers more accustomed to the wooded areas of Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Wisconsin.
Water scarcity was another significant issue. The area where they had settled had limited groundwater resources, forcing the community to rely on the rural water line. This necessity created an interesting juxtaposition with their traditional avoidance of modern utilities, as noted by a local observer: “Apparently their inhibitions to electricity as being unequally yoked with nonbelievers does not extend to the water pipe that they are also connected to non Amish with”[7].
Economic challenges also played a role in the community’s struggles. South Dakota’s economy, which had seen a significant exodus of “English” (non-Amish) residents, proved to be a difficult environment for the Amish to thrive in as well.
The Decision to Relocate
By the early 2020s, after more than a decade in South Dakota, the Amish community in Hutchinson County made the difficult decision to relocate. Rudy Borntreger, who had become the community’s bishop, explained the reasoning behind this move: “Now more people decided to move back to Iowa and Minnesota, so kind of for unity’s sake”[4].
The decision to leave was not taken lightly. Borntreger, who had spent around half of his adult life in South Dakota, expressed a bittersweet sentiment about their time there: “Good country. Good area. Good friends,” he said, noting the changes that had occurred over their 13-year stay, including the passing of old friends and changes in local businesses[4].
Legacy and Future Prospects
As the Amish prepared to leave Hutchinson County, they left behind a legacy of hard work, community spirit, and cultural exchange. The vacant farms they had built up from nothing stood as testament to their efforts and as potential opportunities for others who might wish to live in the area.
Interestingly, while the Hutchinson County settlement was coming to an end, there were indications of Amish establishing themselves in another part of South Dakota, specifically in the area of Burke in Gregory County[4]. This development suggested that while one chapter was closing, another might be opening for the Amish in South Dakota.
Reflections on the Amish Experience in South Dakota
The story of the Amish in Hutchinson County, South Dakota, offers valuable insights into the challenges and adaptations faced by traditional communities in new environments. Their experience highlights the delicate balance between maintaining cultural and religious traditions and adapting to new geographic and economic realities.
The warm welcome they received from their neighbors and the lasting impressions they left demonstrate the potential for positive cultural exchange and community building. At the same time, their struggles with attracting new families and adapting to the landscape underscore the importance of familiar environments in sustaining close-knit communities.
As the Amish of Hutchinson County prepare to write the next chapter of their story in other states, their brief but impactful presence in South Dakota serves as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of America’s cultural and religious landscape. It also highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Amish people, who continue to seek out ways to preserve their traditional way of life in a rapidly changing world.
The journey of these families from Wisconsin to South Dakota and back again is more than just a tale of migration. It’s a story of hope, perseverance, and the enduring strength of community bonds. As they move on to new horizons, the lessons learned and the friendships forged in the prairies of South Dakota will undoubtedly inform their future endeavors and remain a unique chapter in the rich history of Amish settlements in America.
Tags: Amish, South Dakota, Hutchinson County, Wisconsin, migration, farming, community, rural life, cultural adaptation, traditional lifestyle, agriculture, bottle calves, education, religious freedom, economic challenges, water scarcity, community relations, cultural exchange, resilience, Amish settlements
Amish Exodus: How America’s Heartland is Transforming with Unexpected Settlers
In a remarkable shift that’s reshaping rural America, Amish communities are expanding at an unprecedented rate, venturing far beyond their traditional eastern strongholds. This population boom is not only changing the demographic landscape but also revitalizing struggling agricultural regions across the country.
According to recent data from the Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies at Elizabethtown College, the North American Amish population has surged to an estimated 384,290 in 2023, marking a staggering 116% increase since 2000[2]. This growth is primarily driven by large families and high retention rates within Amish communities.
Professor Steven Nolt, Director and Senior Scholar at the Young Center, explains, “There are two explanatory factors: one is large families, and the second is high retention rates”[2]. Unlike many religious groups, the Amish rarely seek converts, making their expansion even more remarkable.
This population explosion has led to a quest for new farmlands, pushing Amish families into previously unexpected territories. Since 2000, Amish settlements have emerged in six new states: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wyoming[2]. The impact is particularly noticeable in states like New York, where the Amish population has more than quadrupled, growing from 4,505 to an estimated 21,230 people[2].
One striking example of this expansion is the new settlement in Kilgore, Nebraska. Led by 46-year-old Bishop Reuben Miller, a group of Amish families has established a community in the heart of the Sandhills, purchasing a 5,038-acre ranch for $9.65 million[1]. This move represents a significant departure from traditional Amish territories, showcasing their adaptability and pioneering spirit.
“I’ve had itchy feet for a long time, and I like the West,” Miller said, explaining his decision to relocate[1]. The Kilgore settlement, currently home to Miller’s family of 13, aims to grow to 15-20 families, potentially rivaling the population of nearby towns.
The influx of Amish settlers is bringing new life to rural areas facing population decline. In Brownington, Vermont, for instance, Amish families from Ohio and Pennsylvania have settled since 2013, contributing to the local economy through various trades and crafts[2].
As Amish communities continue to grow and spread across the country, they face challenges adapting to new environments while maintaining their traditional way of life. However, their presence is increasingly seen as a boon to rural economies, providing skilled labor in areas often short on contractors and revitalizing abandoned farmlands.
This Amish expansion represents more than just population growth; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of rural life and the resilience of traditional communities in modern America. As these settlements continue to flourish, they’re not just preserving their own culture but also breathing new life into the heartland of America.
New Amish Settlement Takes Root in Nebraska’s Sandhills
In an unexpected turn of events, a group of Amish families has chosen the vast, rolling prairies of Nebraska’s Sandhills as their new home. The settlement, located 15 miles south of Kilgore in Cherry County, marks a significant departure from traditional Amish territories in the eastern United States.
Reuben Miller, the 46-year-old bishop of the Kilgore Amish community, led the move earlier this year. “I’ve had itchy feet for a long time, and I like the West,” Miller explained. “I wanted to get away from people.”
The group, originating from Michigan and Kentucky, purchased a 5,038-acre ranch along the Niobrara River for $9.65 million. This substantial investment underscores the community’s commitment to establishing a lasting presence in the area.
Currently consisting of Miller’s family of 13, the settlement aims to grow to 15-20 families, potentially rivaling the population of nearby Cody, Nebraska’s second-largest community in Cherry County.
The Kilgore Amish belong to the “Michigan Amish Fellowship” or “Michigan Circle,” a reformist network that allows some modern conveniences while maintaining traditional values. For instance, they permit landline phones and battery-powered tools but rely on horse-drawn implements for farming.
Despite the challenges of adapting to the drier climate and sandy soil, the Amish have been warmly received by local residents. Their skills in construction and willingness to take on various jobs have been particularly appreciated in an area short on contractors.
The settlement has already established two businesses: a saw sharpening service and a log-home kit production facility. These enterprises aim to provide employment opportunities within the community, allowing families to work close to home.
As the Kilgore Amish settlement continues to grow, it represents a new chapter in the expansion of Amish communities across the United States. With an estimated 367,000 Amish people now living in 32 states, the move to Nebraska’s Sandhills demonstrates the adaptability and resilience of this traditional culture in modern America[1].
The Amish settlers in Nebraska’s Sandhills are facing several challenges in adapting to their new environment:
Acclimation of draft horses: The draft horses are not yet fully acclimated to the drier grasses of the Sandhills[1].
Environmental differences: The Amish are adjusting to the omnipresent cockleburs and deer flies, which are common in the area[1].
Soil conditions: The sandy soil of the Sandhills is different from the more fertile soil they were accustomed to in their previous locations[1].
Transportation limitations: The settlement is about 40 miles from Valentine, the nearest town with stores, and there is a lack of nearby “Amish taxi” drivers to provide transportation[1].
Climate adaptation: The drier climate of the Sandhills requires adjustments in farming and daily life practices[1].
Isolation: The remote location, while intentionally chosen, presents challenges in terms of access to resources and services[1].
These challenges highlight the significant environmental and lifestyle adjustments the Amish community is making as they establish their settlement in this unique region of Nebraska[1].
The Amish community in Preble County, Ohio, centered around Eaton and New Paris, is a growing settlement that offers visitors a unique glimpse into a simpler way of life. This relatively new Amish community has been taking root in recent years, attracting both new settlers and curious tourists alike.
A Growing Amish Presence
The Amish settlement in Preble County has seen significant growth in recent times. Just a year ago, the community consisted of only four families, but it has since expanded to five, marking a 20% increase[1]. This growth is expected to continue, with more Amish families anticipated to arrive in the near future.
The center of this burgeoning settlement appears to be forming along Wolverton Road, north of Campbellstown and near the Indiana state line. Interestingly, this location is in close proximity to the bustling I-70 and the city of Richmond, Indiana, which is somewhat unusual for an Amish settlement that typically seeks more isolated rural areas[1].
Amish Businesses and Attractions
Despite its relatively small size, the Preble County Amish community has already established several businesses that cater to both locals and tourists. These enterprises not only provide income for Amish families but also offer visitors a chance to experience Amish craftsmanship and culinary skills firsthand.
Produce Stands and Bakeries
One of the highlights for visitors to the area is an exceptional Amish produce stand located on Wolverton Road, just south of US 35. This stand has been praised for its outstanding quality, variety, and convenience. Visitors can find an impressive selection of fresh produce, including tomatoes that have been described as “amazing-looking”[1].
In addition to fresh produce, the stand offers homemade candies and jellies in a self-serve refrigerator. On Saturdays, visitors can also purchase homemade donuts, adding a sweet treat to their shopping experience[1].
Furniture and Woodworking
While specific Amish furniture stores in Preble County are not mentioned in the search results, it’s worth noting that woodworking and furniture production are common Amish occupations. In other Amish communities, such businesses are significant employers of Amish workers[4]. Visitors interested in Amish-crafted furniture might find opportunities to purchase these items directly from Amish craftsmen or in local shops.
Farm Visits
Some Amish farms in the area may be open to visitors, offering a glimpse into traditional Amish farming practices. While not specifically mentioned for Preble County, farm visits are common in other Amish settlements and could be a potential attraction as this community grows[3].
Tourist Attractions in Preble County
Beyond the Amish settlement, Preble County offers several attractions that may interest visitors:
Preble County Historical Society
Located at the intersection of state routes 503, 122, and 725 in southeast Preble County, the Preble County Historical Society is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The society’s center is situated on a 255-acre farmstead and features:
A 19th-century farmstead
An 1813 log house
An exhibit hall
An 1855 smokehouse
Over six miles of hiking trails[2]
Lavendel Hills
Lavendel Hills is the first lavender field created and grown in Preble County. Visitors can explore the lavender fields, purchase lavender products, and potentially participate in events such as sunset yoga sessions during the growing season[5].
Hueston Woods State Park
Located in the southwest corner of Preble County, Hueston Woods State Park offers a range of outdoor activities for nature lovers. The park features:
Rustic camping
Hiking trails
A modern resort with an 18-hole championship golf course
Indoor and outdoor pools[6]
Local Festivals and Events
Preble County hosts several annual festivals and events that celebrate its rural heritage:
Black Walnut Festival in Camden
Preble County Pork Festival
Preble County Fair
Derby Days Celebration in Lewisburg
West Alexandria’s Oktoberfest
Chicken Barbecues in West Manchester
Apple Fest in New Paris
Eaton’s White Christmas[6]
Shopping and Dining
Visitors to Preble County can explore various local shops and eateries, some of which showcase Amish and local products:
Strike’s Farm Market
Located at 5786 Ohio 122 South in West Alexandria, Strike’s Farm Market offers a variety of products, including:
Bulk foods
Amish cheese and butter
Candies and snacks
Fresh fruits and produce
Baked goods
The market is open year-round, Monday through Saturday, from 9 am to 6 pm[7].
Morning Sun Organic Farm
For those interested in organic products, Morning Sun Organic Farm at 3993 Ohio 503 South in West Alexandria offers:
Healthy organic meat
Eggs
Wheat, spelt, and berries
The farm is open year-round but does not operate on Sundays[7].
Treasured Times Wood Works
Visitors looking for high-quality, handcrafted furniture can visit Treasured Times Wood Works at 6417 Enterprise Road in West Alexandria. They offer:
Heirloom quality furniture made to order
Oak, cherry, maple, mahogany, and hickory pieces
Clocks, including mantel, wall, and grandfather clocks made on-site
Hours are by appointment[7].
The Amish Way of Life
While enjoying the attractions and shopping opportunities, visitors to Preble County’s Amish community should be mindful of Amish customs and way of life. The Amish are known for their simple living, plain dress, and reluctance to adopt many modern technologies.
Farming remains a significant part of Amish life, although only about 17% of Amish households in some larger settlements report farming as their primary occupation[4]. Many Amish supplement their income through various trades and crafts, including woodworking, furniture making, and the production of handmade goods like quilts, baskets, and leather items[4].
Respecting Amish Culture
When visiting Amish businesses or areas, it’s important to be respectful of their beliefs and practices. Some tips for visitors include:
Asking permission before taking photographs, as many Amish prefer not to be photographed
Dressing modestly out of respect for Amish values
Being mindful that most Amish businesses are closed on Sundays
Driving carefully, especially on rural roads where you might encounter horse-drawn buggies
The Future of Preble County’s Amish Community
As the Amish settlement in Preble County continues to grow, it’s likely to become an increasingly popular destination for those seeking to experience Amish culture and craftsmanship. The community’s proximity to major highways and urban areas like Dayton and Cincinnati makes it easily accessible for day trips or weekend getaways[6].
The presence of the Amish community adds to the rich tapestry of Preble County’s history and culture. As one of Ohio’s primary tourist attractions, Amish Country plays a significant role in the local economy[4]. The growing Amish population in Preble County is poised to contribute to this trend, offering visitors authentic experiences and high-quality, handcrafted products.
In conclusion, the Preble County Amish settlement, though still in its early stages, offers a unique blend of traditional Amish culture and rural Ohio charm. From fresh produce stands to historical sites and natural attractions, the area provides a diverse range of experiences for visitors. As the Amish community continues to establish itself and grow, it’s likely to become an increasingly significant part of Preble County’s cultural and economic landscape, offering both residents and tourists a glimpse into a simpler way of life amidst the beauty of rural Ohio.
Several notable Amish businesses have established themselves in West Virginia, offering a variety of goods and services:
Shady Hillside Variety Store & Kountry Krust Bakery: Located at 11 Grampys Lane, Forest Hill, WV, this store offers a classic Amish variety store experience along with baked goods.
Hidden Creek Farm Market: A recently opened Amish-run market in Hillsboro, selling fresh produce, baked goods, and potentially dairy products in the future.
Kitchen Creek Bakery: Found at 5510 Sweet Springs Valley in Gap Mills, this Amish-Mennonite bakery offers homemade bread and pepperoni rolls.
Cheese ‘n’ More: Located at 5521 Sweet Spring Valley Rd., Gap Mills, this store provides bulk food goods, deli items, and furniture.
Peaceful Hollow Discount Groceries: Situated at 44 Peaceful Hollow, Ballard, WV, this store operates from the basement of an Amish home.
Mountaineer Amish Sales: While not run by the Amish themselves, this store in Morgantown offers Amish-made products, particularly portable buildings.
Weavers Market: Located in Petersburg, WV, this grocery store provides Pennsylvania Dutch Amish products.
These businesses showcase the growing Amish presence in West Virginia, offering traditional goods and services while adapting to local demands and regulations.
Shady Hillside Variety Store & Kountry Krust Bakery
Located at 11 Grampys Lane, Forest Hill, WV, this store offers a classic Amish variety store experience along with baked goods[2]. The business is a dual operation, combining a traditional variety store with a bakery, providing customers with a diverse shopping experience.
The variety store section likely stocks a wide range of household items, crafts, and dry goods typical of Amish-run establishments. Meanwhile, the Kountry Krust Bakery produces an array of fresh-baked items, potentially including bread, rolls, pies, and other traditional Amish baked goods.
This business serves as a community hub, attracting both local residents and tourists interested in experiencing Amish culture and cuisine. Its presence in Forest Hill contributes to the local economy and helps preserve traditional Amish craftsmanship and culinary skills.
Hidden Creek Farm Market
Recently opened in Hillsboro, this Amish-run market sells fresh produce, baked goods, and plans to offer dairy products in the future[1]. The market is a collaborative effort of several Amish families who have established a new community in the area.
Hidden Creek Farm Market showcases a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, corn, beans, potatoes, and seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, and sugar plums. The baked goods section offers fresh bread, rolls, cinnamon rolls, pies, and cookies, all made using traditional Amish recipes and techniques.
The market operates on a seasonal schedule, open Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. In the future, the market hopes to expand its offerings to include fresh dairy products, particularly raw milk, pending changes in West Virginia’s regulations regarding direct sales of raw milk[1].
Peaceful Hollow Discount Groceries
Situated at 44 Peaceful Hollow, Ballard, WV, this store operates from the basement of an Amish home[2][5]. This unique setup provides customers with an authentic Amish shopping experience while allowing the owners to maintain their traditional lifestyle.
The store specializes in discount groceries, offering a variety of food items at reduced prices. Many of these products may be close to their expiration dates but are still edible, providing budget-conscious shoppers with affordable options[2].
Peaceful Hollow Discount Groceries exemplifies the Amish community’s adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit. By operating this business from their home, the owners have found a way to engage in commerce while preserving their cultural values and way of life.
Mountaineer Amish Sales
While not run by the Amish themselves, this store in Morgantown offers Amish-made products, particularly portable buildings[3]. Founded by Chad Matheny in 2014, Mountaineer Amish Sales has been providing prefabricated portable sheds, cabins, and other structures crafted by Amish carpenters.
The business offers a wide range of products, including storage sheds, gazebos, garages, cabins, kennels, chicken coops, and outdoor furniture. All items are built to high-quality standards, reflecting the renowned craftsmanship of Amish builders.
Mountaineer Amish Sales operates multiple display lots across West Virginia and Pennsylvania, including locations in Fairmont, Hazelton, and Morgantown, WV. The company provides free delivery within 35 miles of any of their display lots, making their products accessible to a wide customer base[3][6].
These businesses showcase the growing Amish presence in West Virginia, offering traditional goods and services while adapting to local demands and regulations. They contribute to the state’s economic diversity and provide unique shopping experiences for both locals and tourists interested in Amish craftsmanship and products.
